Reynolds Slammed for Alcohol/Tobacco Promotion December 14, 2005
News Summary
Cigarette maker R.J. Reynolds is being bashed from all sides -- including the alcohol industry -- for a marketing campaign that mixes a cigarette pitch with potent drink recipes.The Los Angeles Times reported Dec. 14 that promotional packages for Camel cigarettes, sent to young adults on their birthdays, includes recipes for drinks like the "Crazy Bootlegger," a mix of Jack Daniels, Southern Comfort and Sambuca which advises, "Mix three shots together over ice, then make sure you're sitting." Taglines for other drinks urge consumers to "Layer it on, go 'til daybreak," "Kiss your worries goodbye," and "Pour over ice, then let it burn."
The campaign drew criticism from the attorneys general of California, New York, and Maryland, with California AG Bill Lockyer saying it "blatantly encourage[s] irresponsible and excessive consumption of alcohol."
Peter Cressy, president of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, condemned Reynolds' "unauthorized, irresponsible campaign condoning excessive, illegal drinking."
"The spirits brands highlighted in the R.J. Reynolds marketing promotion were included without the knowledge, consent or participation of any spirits company," he said.
A Reynolds spokesperson defended the campaign, saying the packages were only sent to people who self-identified as smokers and were of legal drinking age.
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